Paige has just returned from Marmot's Lead Now Tour (www.leadnowtour.org), a global tour to inspire people through rock
climbing while simultaneously raising money for non-profit partners around the
world. Paige compiled an impressive tick list with 5.14 ascents
in six countries, first ascents on two continents, and countless first female ascents from Chile to China.
Over her 10 month world tour, Paige worked with local non-profit organizations
to raise
money specifically for women and children by teaming up with Louder Than Eleven to make video
marketing material.

The Marmot Lead Now Tour has raised nearly $20,000
for charity and Paige is not done yet. She is planning a US tour of her voyage
to continue to raise money for non-profit partners. Join Louder Than Eleven,
Marmot, and Brian Runnels of ClimbingNarc.com for a conversation with Paige
about the Marmot Lead Now Tour and whats next for this international rock
superstar.

Please see the article excerpt below regarding the great bag debate...Osprey comes out on top again!

Q. Should I choose a
hard or soft bag?A. Soft bags are more common than hard-shell luggage and are easier to
squeeze into overhead compartments. These bags also absorb shock better than
their molded counterparts. Soft bags are available in a wide variety of models;
for example, you can purchase a carry-on with a zippered backpack attachment,
or a duffel that can be either strapped to your back or wheeled through the
airport.

Many ultra-lightweight luggage pieces are hard-sided and may help you meet
weight requirements for checked luggage. If your tightly packed bag often
weighs more than you do, look into purchasing a lightweight bag, which can save
you a few pounds. Hard-sided bags also protect fragile items better than soft
bags.

Whether you opt for a hard-sided suitcase or a soft one, be sure that you're paying
for good quality. Flimsy hard-sided luggage can break or crack under pressure,
while cheap soft luggage can tear.

Please check out the film that AAO Ambassador Athlete Dave Cornthwaite put together on his incredible swimming journey down the Missouri river last summer! Proud to support such a great athlete!

"I've been waiting a little while for this, but I'm super
excited to finally be able to share a short 8 minute film about my Missouri
River swim from last summer. It's turned out really well thanks to the
filmmaker Miguel Endara, if I had half of his talent I'd be happy!

I've created a minisite for the film at www.swim1000film.com and hope you feel
it does the project justice

More than anything, it's a beautiful memory of
what was undoubtedly the toughest journey of my life to date. "- Dave

I have just received word that Brian has reached the top of Kilimanjaro! This is his 7th of the "original" 7 summits and a great accomplishment that has come to fruition over the last few climbing seasons.

Vanessa, who traveled with him to climb and finish this goal, fell ill at high camp and had to walk out. Unfortunately it was not the altitude, but rather a travelers bug, that dehydrated Vanessa to a point of danger had she continued. She will meet him at the gate to celebrate his success!

Custom-fitted orthotics, which are worn inside shoes, can easily cost $300
to $500 - and are not often covered by insurance.
While serious athletes and people with foot abnormalities may need to spring
for customized inserts, those who just need extra cushioning and support should
stick with the $30-to-$50 off-the-shelf insoles available at running stores,
says Dr. Steven Weinfeld, chief of foot and ankle surgery at Mount Sinai's
School of Medicine.

Tales from the Road- an AAO Blog

Welcome to the Ames Adventure Outfitters Blog! This is a place to find all the latest news, travel stories and information about the companies we work with: Marmot, Osprey, Sole, Yaktrax, Grangers, Highgear, Little Hotties, Burts Bees and Scarpa!